Edinburgh Instruments, Livingston, UK, 13 April 2012; Edinburgh Instruments Limited, a global leader in the manufacture and development of high-end scientific technology products for the photonics, spectroscopy and gas sensor markets, has announced the appointment of its new Chairman. Dr Derek Shepherd becomes Chairman at a pivotal time for the company as it continues to build on its spectacular growth surge across all its divisions.

Dr Shepherd spent over 25 years with Aggreko plc, the renowned leader in the supply of temporary power and temperature control products rising to become Executive Director and overseeing expansion across Central and South America, the Middle East, Africa and Asia. His international markets knowledge and experience will compliment Edinburgh Instruments’ own international aspirations.

“Derek Shepherd is a proven leader who has demonstrated his value to the energy and construction industries,” said Alan Faichney Chief Executive Officer of Edinburgh Instruments. The Board believes that Derek can assimilate his experience and skills required to further assist our exponential growth internationally. Our global vision remains core to our continual success.”

Commenting on his appointment as Chairman, Dr Shepherd said; “It is an honour for me to be appointed chairman of one of the most innovative high-end scientific instrumentation companies in Scotland. I am delighted to take on this role. Under Alan Faichney’s management, the company is well placed to leverage further global opportunities and my broad international experience aligns perfectly with his own aspirations for the company. Moreover, I want to help build momentum through the organisation, ensuring we can attract the next generation of scientific engineers to help extend our R&D capability.”

Dr Shepherd, who holds an honorary doctorate in engineering from Heriot Watt University, is chairman and founder director of University of Edinburgh spin-out company NGenTec Limited, which developed a permanent magnet generator for wind turbines. Other non-executive directorships include Ashtead Technology Rentals in Aberdeen, Houston and Singapore, Avalon Aviation Services in Dubai and Libertine FPE (a free piston engine start-up) and he is an Advisor to KarPower International, a Turkish company who convert ships into floating power stations.

Dr Shepherd is also a mentor for the Princes Trust in Scotland and as part of the GlobalScot network works as an advisor to Scottish companies wishing to work in the Arabian Gulf and Africa.